Meet the Board of Directors: Justin Feldhouse

How long have you been in your current career? Describe any promotions, and/or circumstances that led you to this career. 
I’ve worked for Simon Property Group for 22 years and like many in their careers, never thought that I would end up in the career I’m in.  I was working as a retail store manager of a watch kiosk when I was 19yrs old at Atrium Mall in Chestnut Hill. Atrium Mall was owned by Simon Property Group at the time.  The kiosk happened to be located adjacent to the mall’s Guest Services desk and as a result of its proximity, I became friendly with the Mall’s Marketing Director. When her Marketing Assistant was in a car accident and could not come back to work, I interviewed for and was offered the job.  I had no idea what the shopping center/real estate management industry was but I was familiar with the property and understood customer service and retailing.  After working in this position for a few years, while starting college at night, I was promoted to Area Guest Services Manager of both Atrium Mall and the Mall at Chestnut Hill for Simon.  Typically that type of role works towards a career in Marketing or Sales but I was more interested in Operations and Management.  So, I made myself as available as possible and often worked long days and nights to help the General Manager and Operations Director with special projects.  When an Operations Supervisor position became available, I jumped on the opportunity to interview.  The General Manager of that property convinced our executive leadership team that it was worth taking a chance on me, someone with little experience but had fire in my belly to succeed.  Over the past 22 years, I’ve had the pleasure of working hard, learning and growing my career at six shopping centers as Director of Operations, Assistant General Manager and General Manager at Simon Property Group. 

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your position? What drives you to stay in this position?
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing a project evolve from an idea to reality and watching the consumer interact with it. It’s also rewarding to help small businesses grow and scale, and I especially like to mentor and give back to others just starting their careers in property management. Every day is different in a dynamic shopping center industry and I enjoy the different range of things I can be working on from day to day. All of this keeps me engaged. 

How long have you been a BACC member? What has your experience been like with the chamber?
I’ve been an active member of BACC for over 5 years now.  However, Burlington Mall has long been a member of the Chamber and was one of the original Business Roundtable members, which later became BACC.  I’ve been a member of many chambers in other communities and BACC is one of my favorites. The leadership is extremely knowledgeable and is a strong and effective advocate for businesses of all sizes.  I’ve also enjoyed meeting many of the other business owners and representatives in the area and discussing trends.  This helps me make decisions at Burlington Mall.

What are some facts about yourself that people might not know?
Not only did the shopping center industry give me a career, but I met my wife while working for Simon—she is the Director of Marketing for Wrentham Premium Outlets, which Simon Property Group also owns.  When I’m not at the mall, I’m usually spending time with my wife, 15yr old daughter and newborn son.  I also love food and traveling . I consider myself a foodie, and no matter where our adventures take us, food is a central part of the trip.